Ronald (Ronnie) Francis Kent

February 8, 2025

CHARLOTTE – Ronald (Ronnie) Francis Kent passed away Saturday, February 8, 2025, after a brief illness.  He was born October 19, 1961, in Long Branch, NJ to the late Barbara Logan Kent and Ronald Omer Kent. 

Ronnie graduated from Metro Center in 1982 and spent years earning numerous medals in the Special Olympics for swimming, bowling, bocce ball, basketball skills, and track & field.  He loved music, movies, sports, art, Legos and Star Wars.  He loved his housemate brothers, Carl, Danny, Ken, Kevin and Sam.  He had a pure love and a joyful heart, and he loved his Lord completely.

He is survived by his sisters, Barbara Robenolt of Jacksonville, FL and Carolyn (Tim) Robinette of Gastonia, NC; sister-in-law, Joy Kent of Concord, NC; nieces, Chelsea Robinette (Tyler Daniel), Angela Ellington (Dan), and Shannon Caldwell; nephews, Tim Robinette, Jr., Chris Robenolt (Teresa) and J.P. Robenolt (Cheyenne).  Also surviving are his aunts, Marion Park and Ida Hardy and many cousins and great nieces and great nephews.  He was preceded in death by his brother, James Gardiner Kent.

The family would like to thank the staff of Novant Health Matthews Medical Center ICU who tirelessly cared for Ronnie with loving kindness throughout his time there.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Ascension Lutheran Church, 1225 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment will follow at Cabarrus Funeral Cremation & Cemetery, 3892 NC-73E, Concord, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Ronnie to Special Olympics North Carolina, 2200 Gateway Centre Blvd., Suite 201, Morrisville, NC 27560 or via the web at https://sonc.net.  

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Adelaide, April & Stephanie

    Although we never had the chance to meet Ronnie in person, it’s was clear from the stories we’ve heard just how deeply he was loved and how much light he brought into your lives. His impact on everyone who knew him will always be treasured, and his spirit will live on in those memories. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to donate to a cause he loved so much—we were honored to do so in his name. We are holding you all close in our thoughts and sending our deepest sympathies during this difficult time.

    Love- C.B

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  • Elaine Elston

    Ronnie became family early on right after I met him. I was always a joy to see him in church on Sunday’s and at cook-outs at the church in the summertime. We had a kindred spirit, Ronnie and I… that kind that says, “I know life is tough sometimes…being different from others, but we know that with the Lord’s help, we make it day by day”, and we are so blessed to have friends who understand without words. I will miss you Ronnie, but just only for a short while. Take your rest dear brother…I’ll see you in the morning ok?
    ✝️?? Alwaysl loving ya, your sis,Elaine

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  • Susan Murphy

    Carolyn & Tim,
    I am so sorry for your loss. I know he will be missed by all who loved him.

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  • Ida Hardy

    I will miss Ronnie's phone calls. He was the sweetest guy with an infectious laugh. Anyone that knew him was truly blessed. I love you Ronnie❤️.

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  • Tanner Grayham

    Ron was an absolute light and joy to be around. His quips made my day and he was such a pleasure to hold a conversation with. He will be greatly missed.

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  • Rhonda Burris

    Sending my deepest condolences to Ron's family and friends during this difficult time my God comfort you through it all ? ?
    I am fairly new staff working with Umar/Monarch at Myers Park and Angel home. Ron really touch my heart the first time meeting him at Providence Church dinner on Wednesday nights . His presence would light up the room with his bold spirit and the love of North Carolina Team which we had in common. He Made my day every time ? My friend you will be truly missed but heaven needed you my beautiful Angel. Rest easy buddy
    Love Rhonda
    #GoTarheelsforLife?

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